Meaning of the word "waste away" in English

What does "waste away" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

waste away

US /weɪst əˈweɪ/
UK /weɪst əˈweɪ/

Phrasal Verb

1.

to gradually become thinner and weaker, often due to illness or lack of food

Example:
After a long illness, he began to waste away.
Without proper nutrition, the child will continue to waste away.
2.

to spend time or resources idly or unproductively

Example:
He spent his youth wasting away in front of the television.
Don't just sit there and waste away; find something productive to do.